Location
Located in the heart of Chettinad, Karaikudi is home to several temples and mansions. The palatial homes of the Nattukottai Chettiars, some of them over a hundred years old, line the main streets of Karaikudi. The high walls are artistically decorated with elaborate designs and attractive colors on the outside. Built in the early 20th century the houses used to reflect the social and economic status of the people who lived in it. The spacious interiors are adorned with fine paintings and sometimes paneled with wood. Expensive furnishings, marble flooring, granite pillars, chandeliers, statues, curios, etc adorn the interiors of these homes. A long verandah with wooden pillars leads to a series of open courtyards surrounded by rooms.